A lab for vocalists providing an overview of sound-reinforcement equipment currently used in live performance and how to use it effectively. Topics will include basic system hookup, kinds of microphones, PA mixers, and speakers, how to EQ individual vocal channels, adding effects, use of monitors, and communicating effectively with the sound person.

ILVC-P117

1 credit(s)

Course Chair: Anne Peckham

Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring

Required of: None

Electable by: Voice principals

Prerequisites: None

Department Code: VOICE

Location: Boston Campus

This course provides an extension of vocal technique and performance building skills that will support private lesson instruction. Students will better understand how their voices function, how to support their own vocal health, and how to apply vocal and performance techniques to a variety of contemporary and traditional styles of music. Students will receive straightforward, science-based information on the vocal function and this course will provide an opportunity for them to work on common vocal challenges and performance in a classroom environment. Students will learn techniques to protect their voices from misuse and overuse, benefit from observing and working with their classmates, and learn a holistic method of developing their unique, personal method of expression.

ILVC-P260

1 credit(s)

Course Chair: Anne Peckham

Semesters Offered: Spring Only

Required of: None

Electable by: Voice principals

Prerequisites: PIVC-112

Department Code: VOICE

Location: Boston Campus

In this course, students acquire the essential piano skills to self-accompany while singing. Students are encouraged to perform tunes from all genres for peer review, analyzing the most common voicings for each style and choosing what is genre-appropriate. Students evaluate key signatures to find which key works best for a given song, transposing and arranging a tune to highlight vocals, as well as adding intros, interludes, and codas. They also strategize about practicing and performing more difficult genres, such as r&b, which involve potentially complicated bass lines and rhythmic figures. Students examine tempos and how they effect a given song. Students also learn about stage performance and posture, practicing how to avoid looking at the keys; pedal use; optimum microphone position; and avoiding tension in the neck and shoulders or vocal strain during performance or practice.

ILWD-211

1 credit(s)

Course Chair: Bill Pierce

Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring

Required of: None

Electable by: Woodwind principals

Prerequisites: None

Department Code: WWND

Location: Boston Campus

A lab designed to give beginning and intermediate woodwind students hands-on experience with jazz nomenclature, chord scale relationships, basic woodwind jazz articulation, jazz vocabulary, and standard jazz repertoire. In-class playing assignments will give students practice in the application of theoretical, technical, and stylistic improvisational skills. The study and performance of selected transcribed solos will support learning of specific stylistic woodwind concepts.

ILWD-221

1 credit(s)

Course Chair: Bill Pierce

Semesters Offered: Spring Only

Required of: None

Electable by: All

Prerequisites: None

Department Code: WWND

Location: Boston Campus

A lab focusing on efficient and effective practice to develop sound, technique, articulation, and other fundamentals. Approaches to difficult passages; customization and personalization of practice routines; how to avoid common mistakes in practicing. Scales, arpeggios, and chromatic exercises are approached combining classical and jazz performance orientations. Consideration of flute players in both fields and the application of color, dynamic range, vibrato, articulation, breathing, and tone development. In addition to the material provided by the instructor, students will bring their own choice of jazz and/or classical pieces to perform in class. Basic and advanced material will be covered.

ILWD-241

1 credit(s)

Course Chair: Bill Pierce

Semesters Offered: Spring Only

Required of: None

Electable by: All

Prerequisites: ILWD-113

Department Code: WWND

Location: Boston Campus

This course is designed to help the flutist develop a jazz style of playing through the study of various practice routines and the performance of standard jazz repertory. Students will perform on a weekly basis with sequenced practice routines and rhythm tracks of standard jazz tunes.